Autumn activities- how to make the most out of the spooky season!

With school starting again and the air getting colder, it is clear that the season of fall is at last upon us. Although it’s easy to get lost in the grief of summer's departure, don’t overlook the fun and festive fall activities that Vancouver has to offer- perfect for making the most out of this year’s autumn season!

1. A walk through fall 

 Hikes

I find fall to be the most beautiful season -especially in Vancouver- where we are lucky enough to have so much beautiful forestry and scenic landscapes. As the leaves fade into shades of red, orange and brown, blanketing the streets, sidewalks and trails, one of the best ways to embrace the season is to simply go on a walk and take in all of autumn’s colors! Some particularly picturesque trails this time of year include :Stanley Park, Lighthouse Park, Lynn Canyon and Burnaby Mountain! 

(burnaby mountain trail) 

Pumpkin patches

Now what embodies the season of fall more than a pumpkin patch? A pumpkin patch is a great fall activity, especially with your family! Whether you’re sipping on some apple cider, getting lost in a corn maze, going on a hayride or scouting the perfect pumpkin to carve , a pumpkin patch caters to all ages, and is a great way to spend the day! Some of my favorite’s include: Maan Farms market, Tave’s family farms, and Richmond country farms. 

(Taves family farms pumpkin patch) 

Apple picking

In comes autumn, off come apples! Apple picking season runs from early September to early November, reaching its peak in October. Basking in the golden leaves, wandering through orchards, all the while collecting fresh apples- I don’t know about you but this one’s definitely going on my fall bucket list. Enjoy this fruitful activity at Willow View farms or Tave’s family farms!

Fort Langley

Just a 45 min drive from Vancouver, this charming historic town offers the ultimate fall vibes. Stroll through its cozy cafes, stop by cute bakeries, take in the town, or maybe even have a fall photoshoot with tons of cute places to pumpkin-spice up your pinterest board or Insta feed. In addition to Fort Langley, other cute and quaint towns worth visiting include Steveston and Whiterock.  

2. How to spend the gloomy days romanticizing the rain, 

In case you didn’t already know, Vancouver tends to be a very rainy city, so unfortunately it's not uncommon to be stuck inside the house, especially when the weather outside looks… less than inviting. After a lifetime of putting up with Raincouver’s gloomy, puddle filled days, I’d say I’m pretty certified in making the most of time spent indoors. 

Movie night

Grab your popcorn! Whether you're spending the night with friends or family, a movie night is hands down one of the best ways to enjoy a gloomy fall day. Settle in with fluffy blankets, your favorite snacks, your favorite people, and of course, your favorite fall movie! Some of my go to picks include; Hocus Pocus, Coraline, Fantastic Mr Fox, Little Women, Corpse Bride, Good Will Hunting, and the Dead Poets Society. 

Bake day

Another one of my favorite ways to spend a rainy autumn's day is baking my favorite treats! Oatmeal cookies, chocolate chip cookies, blueberry muffins, apple crumble, cinnamon buns – there’s nothing like a sweet treat to brighten you up on a stormy day. Cozied up with a few candles and a good book, you’re bound to forget all about the dreary weather. 

Fall playlist 

An autumn playlist is sure to launch you into those fall vibes. Whether you’re knitting at home, walking your dog, or even just doing your homework, autumn music will deceive you into thinking you’ve stepped straight into Gilmore Girls. In my opinion, it isn’t truly fall until the leaves turn red and I’m listening to ‘This Night Has Opened My Eyes’ by The Smiths on repeat. 

3. Spooky activities

With Halloween just around the corner, here are some super spooky activities to get into that haunting vibe. 

Carving pumpkins:

On your marks, get set, carve! Put on your favorite scary songs, lay down your super spooky designs, and get gutting. Although seemingly overlooked, don’t underestimate how spooky pumpkin carving can be. After all, nothing screams Halloween quite like a few scary pumpkins perched up on your lawn. 

Painting pumpkins 

If carving’s not your thing, or you just don’t like getting covered with pumpkin seeds, pumpkin painting is a super fun (and still spooky) alternative! Get creative by painting skulls, ghosts,or whatever makes your inner Frankenstein come alive. 

Scary corn maze; Maan haunted farms

An hour drive from West Vancouver lies Canada’s allegedly Scariest Corn Maze. Located in Abbotsford, Maan Haunted farms has the ultimate haunted experience for those who love all things spooky. Now, is it the scariest in Canada? That, you’ll have to figure out yourself…  

PNE frightnight 

For a quintessential Halloween experience in Vancouver, head to the PNE for snacks, rides, games, and all things haunted. Wander through spooky haunted houses, try your luck at carnival games, and scream your way through thrilling rides. With Halloween-themed shows and activities for both kids and adults, it’s the perfect place to soak up the festive spirit and make some unforgettable autumn memories.

Happy fall festivities! 

No matter how you choose to spend it, the Sentinel Sun wishes you a very festive fall and a Happy Halloween!